As the sun rises a little higher and stays around a little longer each day, summer settles in with a blazing intensity. That’s especially true here in Florida. With daily highs well into the 90s and humidity that makes the air feel thick enough to swim through, Floridians know that staying cool is an absolute necessity.
And while it may seem like comfort and efficiency are a trade-off when it comes to running your AC, a little knowledge can go a long way. That’s why we’ve put together this helpful guide full of AC tips for summer designed to help you — and your wallet — stay cool.
Why Florida Summers are Brutal on HVAC Systems
The combination of relentless heat and high humidity creates one of the harshest environments for HVAC systems to operate in. Unlike dry heat, humid air holds onto moisture, making it harder for sweat to evaporate off your skin and harder for your home to feel cool, even when the AC is blasting. This means your unit must work overtime to lower both temperature and humidity indoors.
When you add the sheer duration of Florida’s hot and humid season, which can stretch from April through October, it becomes clear why preventive maintenance and smart operation are essential. Without careful attention, your system may run inefficiently, wear out faster, or even fail during the hottest days of the year — right when you need it the most.
12 Expert AC Tips for Summer in Florida
To help you beat the Florida heat without overworking your air conditioner or your budget, we’ve compiled some of the most effective and practical strategies you can use right now. These AC tips for summer are designed to boost efficiency, extend the life of your system, and keep your home consistently comfortable, even during the most sweltering days.
1. Set Your Thermostat Wisely
Many homeowners believe cranking the thermostat down to 65 degrees will cool their home faster. The truth is, your AC cools at a steady rate no matter the setting. Instead, aim for a moderate setting — around 75 to 78 degrees when you’re home. When you’re away, raise it by two to five degrees. This can help save energy while reducing wear on your system.
2. Use Ceiling and Portable Fans to Circulate Air
Fans don’t cool the air, but they make your home feel cooler by moving air across your skin and helping sweat evaporate faster. Using ceiling fans in occupied rooms allows you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. It’s one of the simplest yet most effective AC tips for summer.
3. Change Your Air Filter Regularly
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder. This not only decreases efficiency but also raises your energy bill and can cause breakdowns. During summer, check your filter every month and replace it at least every 60 days — or more often if you have pets or allergies.
4. Schedule Professional Maintenance Before Peak Season
Just like your car, HVAC systems need service at regular intervals. With scheduled maintenance, a professional technician can spot potential issues, clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure your system is ready to handle the summer heat. Ideally, book this service in the spring to avoid peak-season delays.
5. Seal Leaks Around Doors and Windows
Cool air escaping from gaps in doors and windows forces your AC to run longer to maintain the desired temperature. Sealing these leaks with weather stripping or caulk is a quick DIY project that pays off in comfort and savings.
6. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Modern thermostats can automatically adjust your home’s temperature based on your schedule. This means you’re not leaving your AC on when you don’t need to, cooling an empty house and wasting energy. Some models even learn your habits and suggest energy-saving adjustments — smart living for smart summers.
7. Close Curtains and Blinds During Peak Sun Hours
Direct sunlight streaming through your windows can dramatically heat your home’s interior. Block out the sun during the hottest parts of the day with curtains, blinds, or thermal shades to keep your AC from overworking.
8. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clean and Clear
Your condenser unit needs breathing room. Make sure it’s free from leaves, branches, dirt, and debris. Trim back plants or shrubs at least two feet away. A clean unit allows for better airflow and heat exchange, which translates into better efficiency and performance.
9. Avoid Heat-Producing Appliances During the Day
Ovens, dryers, and even incandescent light bulbs can add heat to your home. Shift cooking and laundry to early morning or evening hours, and consider using microwaves, toaster ovens, or outdoor grills instead. These small changes go a long way in reducing indoor heat load.
10. Insulate Your Attic and Ductwork
Hot attic air and poorly insulated ducts can reduce cooling efficiency. Make sure your attic has adequate insulation, and if your ductwork runs through unconditioned spaces, insulate it as well. This helps maintain cool air from the AC all the way to your vents.
11. Ensure Proper Ventilation
Good ventilation helps expel warm, stale air and draw in cooler air at night. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens when cooking or showering to minimize humidity build-up. This is another lesser-known yet crucial item on our list of AC tips for summer.
12. Upgrade Older Systems When Needed
No matter how many efficiency tips you apply, an old and outdated AC system can only do so much. If your system is more than 10 to 15 years old, you might actually save money in the long run by upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient model.
Bonus AC Tip for Summer: Humidity Control is Key
Here in Florida, humidity is as much a villain as heat. High indoor humidity makes you feel sticky and uncomfortable, even when your AC is running. To fight this, ensure your system is properly sized for your home — oversized units cool the air too quickly without removing enough moisture. You might also consider a whole-home dehumidifier, especially if you consistently battle high indoor humidity.
This focus on moisture management is what sets apart our more advanced AC tips for summer. It’s not just about cooling, it’s about comfort and air quality too.
An HVAC Partner You Can Trust
Florida summers test the limits of even the best air conditioning systems. But with a little preparation and the right habits, you can enjoy a cool and comfortable home without breaking the bank. While many of these AC tips for the summer are simple enough to do on your own, there’s no substitute for expert service. From pre-season tune-ups to emergency repairs, the right partner can keep your AC system running smoothly and efficiently.
Whether you’re sealing up leaks, changing filters, or investing in professional maintenance, each step you take extends the life of your system and improves your summer experience. Effective cooling is about more than just lowering the thermostat. It’s about working with your environment, using technology smartly, and relying on trusted professionals when needed. In your quest to stay cool, we hope these AC tips for summer can be your guide to a more comfortable and efficient season.
Call Complete Air Mechanical to Keep Your AC Running Smoothly
Have questions about the best way to run your AC during the summer? Complete Air Mechanical can help. Our family-owned and operated team has served Central Florida since 1992, providing expert HVAC services from routine maintenance to emergency repairs. Whether you want to know about servicing an existing system or switching to a system compatible with newer refrigerants, we have you covered!
If you live in Longwood, Seminole, Orange, Osceola, or Volusia, contact us today to schedule your service.
Schedule Service Online or call us at (407) 915-0144.